Russia Ukraine war, page-214279

West 'in denial' about Putin - who is now 'more powerful than Stalin'

British former minister Tobias Ellwood has warned the West is "in denial" about the power of Vladimir Putin, who is "now more powerful than Stalin".

He was asked about a call from ex-defence minister James Heappey for the UK to consider sending troops to Ukraine.

These troops would hypothetically provide training - and not go to the front line.

Mr Ellwood said: "We've done well to support Ukraine, more so perhaps than other nations. What's happening in Ukraine is very worrying indeed.

"Step back at the bigger picture... no one doubts that the world is feeling ever more dangerous, but we dare not contemplate where history is taking us."

The MP said while Russia is moving its industries to a "war footing", the West appears to be "in denial".

"Putin is now the most powerful leader in Europe, he's removed all his opposition voices, he's pivoted his entire economy away from Europe and to China and Iran," he said.

Mr Ellwood argued Mr Putin is "now more powerful than Stalin".

"In plain sight, his goal is to emulate his hero Stalin by reasserting his influence over eastern Europe - not to replicate the old Soviet Union, but the old Russian Empire."

He added: "We must prepare better, we must support Ukraine better."

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